Top 20 Authentic Polish Dishes You Must Taste
Traditional Starters & Soups
1. Pierogi
The best recipes: Pierogi: a timeless symbol of Polish culinary heritage
Most foreigners recognize pierogi, the crescent-shaped dumplings with various fillings. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a hearty lunch, a main course, or even a dessert.
Traditionally, pierogi are boiled, though modern variations may be fried or baked. Fillings range from classic combinations like farmer’s cheese and potatoes (ruskie), cabbage and mushrooms, or minced meat, to sweet options like fruits, cottage cheese, and raisins.
While some outside Poland prefer to pair pierogi with sauces or creative toppings, the traditional Polish way is simpler—served with melted butter or sautéed onions. For savory pierogi, toppings often include fried onions and/or skwarki (fried lard pieces), so vegetarians should confirm before digging in.
Lastly, a fun linguistic note: “pierogi” is already plural in Polish, with the singular being “pieróg.” Adding an “s” to make “pierogis” or “perogies” is a common mistake, similar to saying “pastas” for Italian pasta or “gnocchis” for gnocchi—a definite faux pas!
2. Zapiekanki
The best recipes: Zapiekanka (Poland’s irresistible toasted baguette)
Zapiekanki are a staple of Polish street food, often enjoyed as a late-night bite or a quick, satisfying lunch. These open-faced toasted baguette sandwiches are both convenient and delicious, making them a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The classic zapiekanka starts with a halved baguette, topped with a generous layer of sautéed mushrooms and melted cheese. Additional toppings like ham, onions, pickles, or even spicy salami can be added for extra flavor. Once assembled, the baguette is baked until the cheese is gooey and bubbly, and the bread achieves a perfectly crispy texture.
What makes zapiekanki truly special is the variety of toppings and sauces available, allowing you to customize each bite to your taste. Whether you prefer garlic sauce, spicy ketchup, or a mix of both, there’s a flavor combination for everyone.
Zapiekanki are more than just a quick snack—they’re a cherished part of Polish culinary culture. Be sure to try one the next time you visit Poland and discover why this humble dish continues to win hearts!
3. Red Borscht (Barszcz Czerwony)
The best recipes: Red borscht (barszcz сzerwony)
Barszcz czerwony, or red beet soup, is a cherished dish traditionally served during Christmas Eve dinner in Poland. Its vibrant deep red color comes from its star ingredient—beetroots, which are cooked until tender and then grated or pureed to create a smooth, velvety texture.
This versatile soup can be enjoyed either hot or cold, making it suitable for any season. When served warm, it’s often accompanied by a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, which add a creamy and fragrant touch to its earthy flavor.
Whether part of a holiday feast or a comforting meal on a chilly day, barszcz czerwony captures the essence of Polish culinary tradition in every spoonful.
4. Żurek: Poland’s Iconic Soured Rye Soup
The best recipes: Żurek
Żurek is a beloved traditional Polish soup, known for its distinctively sour flavor derived from fermented rye flour. This unique tangy taste sets it apart from other soups in Polish cuisine, making it a must-try dish.
The soup’s base, called zakwas, is made by combining fermented rye flour with water to create the signature sour liquid. To this base, ingredients like diced potatoes, smoked sausage, and sometimes mushrooms, onions, or hard-boiled eggs are added, resulting in a rich and hearty meal.
Żurek is often served in an edible bread bowl, which adds to its rustic charm, and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh marjoram for an aromatic finish. This comforting dish perfectly encapsulates the warmth and depth of Poland’s culinary traditions.
5. Chłodnik: Poland’s Refreshing Chilled Beet Soup
The best recipes: Chłodnik
Chłodnik, as the name suggests, is a cold Polish soup that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Known for its vibrant pink hue, this chilled beet soup is a refreshing treat, especially during warmer months.
The base of chłodnik is made from young, tender beets (different from those used in barszcz), which are boiled until soft and then grated or pureed. The beet base is combined with tangy yogurt or buttermilk, creating a creamy, smooth, and invigorating consistency.
Perfectly balancing its earthy and tangy flavors, chłodnik is not only a feast for the palate but also a visually striking addition to any meal.
6. Krokiety: Crispy Polish Pancake Rolls
The best recipes: Krokiety
Krokiety are a beloved Polish dish made from thin pancakes, similar to crepes, that are filled with flavorful ingredients. The most traditional fillings include seasoned meat, mushrooms, and sautéed onions, but variations can feature other tasty combinations.
Once filled, the pancakes are rolled tightly, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to perfection, creating a crispy golden exterior that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling inside.
Krokiety are often served with sour cream or tangy tomato sauce, adding a creamy or zesty element to each bite. They’re commonly enjoyed as an appetizer, especially alongside a cup of red borscht, but can also be served as a satisfying main course.
7. Mizeria: Polish Cucumber Salad
The best recipes: Mizeria
Despite its name, which translates to “misery” in Polish, mizeria is anything but miserable—it’s a refreshing and flavorful salad that adds a burst of freshness to any meal.
This traditional Polish dish features thinly sliced cucumbers coated in a light dressing made from sour cream, vinegar, and fresh dill. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural crispness of the cucumbers to stand out, while the tangy dressing adds a delightful zing.
Mizeria is a versatile side dish that complements a wide range of main courses, especially those with bold, hearty flavors. Whether paired with stews, grilled meats, or included in a summer picnic spread, it offers a cooling, refreshing contrast to richer dishes.
9. Sałatka Jarzynowa: Polish Cold Vegetable Salad
The best recipes: Sałatka Jarzynowa
Sałatka jarzynowa is a classic Polish dish, often served at festive gatherings and family celebrations. This satisfying salad is a delightful mix of cooked, diced vegetables, all bound together with a creamy dressing. The main ingredients typically include potatoes, carrots, peas, and sometimes additional vegetables like pickles or corn.
The vegetables are cooked until tender, then cooled and finely diced to create a pleasant combination of textures. The creamy dressing, made from a blend of mayo and sour cream, beautifully balances the natural sweetness of the vegetables with its rich, tangy flavor.
This salad is a popular choice for holidays like Easter, as well as family picnics and casual get-togethers, due to its ability to be made in advance and served at room temperature. It’s a refreshing and hearty side dish that perfectly complements a variety of main courses.
9.Ogórki Kiszone: Polish Pickled Cucumbers
The best recipes: Ogórki Kiszone
Pickled cucumbers, or ogórki kiszone, are a beloved staple in Polish cuisine. Known for their distinctive sour and tangy flavor, these cucumbers are a favorite accompaniment to meals, often served as a side dish, appetizer, or enjoyed on their own with a cold beer or shot of vodka.
Poles have a deep appreciation for the art of pickling, and the tradition of ogórki kiszone is a testament to that obsession. The cucumbers are typically fermented in brine with garlic, dill, and spices, resulting in a crunchy, flavorful snack that pairs perfectly with hearty Polish dishes or serves as a palate cleanser. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a snack, they are a true Polish culinary delight.
10. Śledź w Śmietanie: Herring in Sour Cream
The best recipes: Śledź w Śmietanie
Śledź w śmietanie (herring in sour cream) is a quintessential part of the Polish holiday spread, especially during Christmas Eve dinner. While herring is often enjoyed in various forms—pickled in vinegar (known as rolmops) or prepared in sour cream—this creamy version stands out for its rich and tangy flavor.
To prepare, fresh herring fillets are marinated in a blend of vinegar, sugar, and onions. This marinating process helps to mellow the intense fishy flavor, infusing the herring with a delicate balance of sweetness and tang. Once the herring has absorbed the marinade, it’s served in a luxurious sour cream sauce, generously topped with pickled onions and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Śledź w śmietanie is typically served chilled, allowing the flavors to blend and the herring to fully absorb the creamy marinade. It’s often enjoyed on a slice of rye bread or alongside boiled potatoes, offering a perfect contrast of textures and a harmonious medley of flavors.
11.Bigos: Hunter’s Stew – A Polish Culinary Masterpiece
The best recipes: Bigos
Bigos, often referred to as “hunter’s stew,” is a hearty and iconic Polish dish that has earned its place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many.
This traditional stew is a flavorful blend of sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, assorted meats (such as pork, beef, and sausage), and a medley of aromatic spices. The magic of bigos lies in its slow-cooking process, which allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich, complex flavor profile that evolves with each bite.
The combination of tangy sauerkraut and tender meats results in a dish that’s savory, slightly sour, and incredibly satisfying. Bigos is often enjoyed during cold weather or at festive occasions, and like many stews, it’s said to taste even better the day after it’s made, as the flavors continue to develop.
12.Gołąbki: Traditional Polish Cabbage Rolls
The best recipes: Gołąbki
Gołąbki, or “little pigeons” in Polish, may have an unusual name, but they are anything but ordinary. These tender cabbage rolls are a beloved Polish dish and one of the most popular comfort foods worldwide.
Gołąbki are made by wrapping tender cabbage leaves around a savory mixture of ground meat (typically pork or beef), rice, and aromatic herbs. The rolls are then gently simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Whether served as a hearty main course, often paired with mashed potatoes, or as part of a larger Polish feast, gołąbki are sure to satisfy. Their combination of tender cabbage, flavorful filling, and rich sauce makes them a true crowd-pleaser that will have you reaching for seconds.
13. Kotlet Schabowy: The Classic Polish Schnitzel
The best recipes: Kotlet Schabowy
Kotlet schabowy is a quintessential comfort food in Poland, bringing back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. This beloved dish starts with a tender pork chop, which is carefully pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Once the meat is seasoned, it’s dipped in flour, followed by beaten eggs, and then coated in breadcrumbs. The result is a crispy, golden crust—reminiscent of the Austrian Wiener Schnitzel, but with its own Polish twist.
Traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes sprinkled with dill, kotlet schabowy is often accompanied by a tangy beetroot salad or refreshing mizeria (cucumber salad). It’s a meal that embodies the heart of Polish cuisine and is the ultimate in comfort and tradition.
14.Pampuchy: Soft Polish Steamed Dumplings
The best recipes: Pampuchy
Pampuchy, also known as bułki na parze (steamed rolls), are a beloved treat in Poland, especially popular among kids. These large, soft dumplings are made from yeast dough, resulting in a pillowy, light texture that’s hard to resist.
Once steamed to perfection, pampuchy are typically served warm, drizzled with melted butter and dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet, comforting indulgence. Alternatively, they can be paired with a creamy sauce for a savory twist.
Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or a savory side, pampuchy are a delightful part of Polish culinary tradition that brings comfort and joy to anyone who tries them.
15. Placki Ziemniaczane: Polish Potato Pancakes
The best recipes: Placki Ziemniaczane
Placki ziemniaczane, or potato pancakes, are a classic Polish dish that brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite. These golden, crispy delights are made by grating potatoes and mixing them with finely chopped onions, a touch of flour, and just the right amount of seasoning. The mixture is then shaped into patties and fried until they reach crispy perfection.
Traditionally served hot, placki ziemniaczane are often topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sugar for a sweet and savory contrast. For a heartier meal, they can be served with a rich goulash or thick mushroom sauce, making them a versatile dish that satisfies both the soul and the stomach.
16. Kopytka: Polish Hoof-Shaped Dumplings
The best recipes: Kopytka
The name kopytka, which translates to “little hooves” in Polish, comes from the dumplings’ distinctive shape, resembling small hooves. These soft, versatile dumplings are a staple in Polish cuisine and can be served in a variety of ways—boiled and topped with butter, breadcrumbs, or gravy, to name a few.
Kopytka are often enjoyed as a side dish with meat, but they can also be served as a main course. They are particularly popular in schools and during Sunday family lunches. While they may look similar to lazy pierogi (pierogi leniwe), there’s a key difference: lazy pierogi are sweet, made with cottage cheese, while kopytka are savory dumplings made with potatoes. This distinction makes kopytka a more hearty and versatile dish, perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
17. Golonka: Polish Pork Hock
The best recipes: Golonka
Golonka, or pork hock, is a beloved Polish dish known for its tender, succulent meat and crispy, flavorful skin. This hearty dish is typically prepared by braising or roasting a pork knuckle until the meat becomes so tender it falls off the bone effortlessly.
The pork knuckle is often marinated and seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs, such as garlic, caraway seeds, and bay leaves, which infuse the meat with rich, aromatic flavors. Slow-cooking the knuckle for hours allows the spices to meld into the meat, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s a true comfort food.
Golonka is often served with hearty sides like sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, or bread, making it a perfect dish for a family feast or special occasion. Its rich, flavorful profile has made it a staple in Polish cuisine for generations.
18. Pączki: Polish Donuts
The best recipes: Pączki
Let’s indulge in something sweet and irresistible—pączki, the iconic Polish donuts that are a favorite treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.
These deep-fried pastries are made from a rich, yeasted dough, resulting in a soft, pillowy texture that’s simply addictive. Traditionally filled with sweet fillings like rosehip jam, prune jam, or creamy custard, pączki offer a burst of flavor with every bite.
Though they’re enjoyed year-round, pączki are especially beloved on Fat Thursday, the day before Lent, when Poles celebrate by indulging in these decadent treats. Whether as a special occasion dessert or a delicious snack, pączki are a delightful part of Poland’s sweet culinary tradition.
19.Makowiec: Polish Poppy Seed Cake
The best recipes: Makowiec
Makowiec is a traditional Polish dessert that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. This delightful cake features a soft, yeast-based dough rolled around a generous filling of ground poppy seeds, sweetened with honey and sugar, and sometimes enriched with nuts or dried fruits.
The dough serves as the perfect backdrop to the vibrant, flavorful poppy seed filling. The roll is baked until golden brown, often finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Makowiec is a holiday favorite, especially during Christmas and Easter, and is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Its presence at the dessert table is always met with joy, as it brings a beautiful combination of textures and flavors that everyone can enjoy.
20.Wuzetka: Warsaw’s Iconic Chocolate Cake
Wuzetka, also known as the WZ cake, is a rich and indulgent Polish dessert that combines layers of light chocolate sponge cake with velvety chocolate mousse.
Named after the famous W-Z route in Warsaw, the cake’s design reflects the shape of the road, with its chocolate ganache topping creating a sleek, glossy finish. The layers of soft cake and creamy mousse make for a perfectly balanced treat, delivering both richness and smoothness with every bite.
A true staple of Polish pastry shops, wuzetka is a decadent choice for chocolate lovers and a symbol of Warsaw’s culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or as an everyday treat, this cake is always a delightful indulgence.
